Article: 40th Free Climbing Course 2026: dates, pre-registrations and CAI Biella gym
40th Free Climbing Course 2026: dates, pre-registrations and CAI Biella gym
Quick overview and decision
This is the 40th Free Climbing Course organized by the CAI Biella Section. Official information available states the course will take place from 23 September to 25 October 2026, with online pre-registrations from 24 August to 4 September 2026 and a maximum of 20 participants admitted. Before deciding: check current availability, the official day-of communications and verify weather and conditions for the planned outings on the day of the activity.
The cover and the staged image were generated with AI for illustrative purposes. They do not represent actual products or current conditions of the route.
What we know officially about the course
We use only information published by the CAI Biella Section: course dates (23/09–25/10/2026), pre-registration period (24/08–04/09/2026) and the enrollment limit of 20 places. The Section's gym is open to the public on Thursday evenings from 21:00 to 23:00. These references are the starting points for registration and planning gym sessions.
What to check before you go
- Confirm the result of your pre-registration and the number of remaining places directly with the Section: the official deadlines are those in the announcement.
- Request the detailed program: dates and times of gym meetings, any meeting points for outings and the schedule of practical lessons; individual meetings may change.
- Check weather and conditions at the outing location the day before and the morning of the activity; consult CAI official communications for program changes or specific notices.
- Ask in advance what is included in the fee (harness, helmet, ropes) and what you must bring personally.
- If you want to try the facility before the course starts, remember the gym's public hours (Thursday 21:00–23:00) and check for any changes on the official channel.
Who the course is suitable for
The official announcement does not specify technical levels or prerequisites. Before you enroll, ask whether the course accepts absolute beginners or is intended for those already familiar with rope work and belaying. If you start from scratch, make sure introductory modules are planned; if you have experience, ask whether the program includes field outings suited to your level.
Clothing, fit and layering logic
The dates (late September–October) place the course in the late-summer/autumn transition: expect gym sessions and outdoor outings with thermal swings. For outings, favour a modular layering system you can open or close easily when moving or while waiting at a belay. Avoid overly bulky garments that restrict movement with a harness.
Layering guidelines
For the base layer choose fabrics that move moisture and limit odours: Merino wool is a practical option for repeated training. For mid layers a light piece (fleece or technical insulating top) that retains heat without bulk. The outer shell should be windproof and water-repellent, thin and shaped so it doesn’t catch on the harness.
Fit and practical details
Check mobility: trousers should have enough stretch and ideally a gusseted crotch for twists and high movements. Unnecessary pockets and bulky seams can be uncomfortable under a harness; prefer clean cuts and materials that are durable yet flexible.
Technical equipment and products mentioned
Always verify what the course provides and what you need to bring. If you use personal climbing shoes the wall feeling changes a lot: examples in our shop help orient you but don’t replace trying them in store. Citations taken from product sheets (for information only): T-shirt S/S Ocean Uomo Blu (Rewoolution) is indicated as a base shirt in 100% Merino wool with thermoregulating and odor-control properties; the Scaldacollo Polar Cap Bianco (Montura) is described as made in double polyester fleece and transformable into a beanie; the Scarpe Otaki Arancioni (La Sportiva) are indicated as crag climbing shoes with hook-and-loop closure; the Moschettone Rock Safety K3N (Grivel) is an HMS forged aluminum carabiner, weight 37 g, CE EN 12275 class B and UIAA 121 certified.
Practical use: bring your own shoes if you prefer them for the feel, a compact neck warmer can be useful for temperature changes, and if you bring carabiners or personal gear ensure they are suitable and certified. Do not assume the course provides everything: always ask for the list of equipment included in the fee.
Practical for gym and crag (brief, without extra checklist)
In the gym focus on lightness and breathability: a technical shirt, comfortable climbing shoes and a compact neck warmer are enough for most sessions. For crag outings add a wind shell, a warmer mid layer for belays and a lightweight hat; bring extra socks for after activity and a small pack containing water and a snack. If the course requires personal gear (rope, harness, helmet), they will inform you: do not assume everything is provided.
Before registering
Pre-register within the official period (24/08–04/09/2026) if you want to apply: the 20-participant limit means selection can close quickly. If you have questions about sizing or fit of garments, try products in-store or ask for tailored advice before buying personal gear. Remember: official information, changes and day-of updates are managed by the CAI Section; rely on those channels for operational decisions.
To view the selection of garments and climbing equipment visit our Arrampicata collection. If you prefer personalized advice, drop by our store in Biella for technical consultation.
Products mentioned in the article
FAQ
When are pre-registrations for the 2026 climbing course?
Online pre-registrations are open from 24 August to 4 September 2026, as stated in the official announcement from the CAI Biella Section.
What are the official dates of the course?
The course will run from 23 September to 25 October 2026, according to the CAI Biella Section's official publication.
How many participants can enroll in the course?
The course allows a maximum of 20 participants, a number indicated in the Section's official announcement.
Is the CAI gym accessible to the public before the course starts?
The Section's gym is open to the public on Thursday evenings from 21:00 to 23:00 according to the Section's published information; check the official channel for any changes.
What should I wear for a mixed gym/crag session in autumn?
Bring modular layers: a breathable base layer (Merino or synthetic), a light mid layer (fleece), and a windproof/water-repellent shell. Add a compact neck warmer and climbing shoes; adjust layering depending on exercise intensity and the day's weather.
